Pangong Lake
Pangong Lake Ladakh
If there is one place in Ladakh that feels straight out of a dream, it is Pangong Lake also known as Pangong Tso. This stunning high altitude saltwater lake situated at a remarkable 4,350 meters above sea level, is one of the world’s highest saltwater lakes. Famous for its ever changing shades of blue, Pangong Lake has become one of the top tourist attractions in Ladakh, especially after being featured in Bollywood movies like 3 Idiots. The name Pangong Tso means “high grassland lake” in Tibetan.
This high altitude lake is approximately 134km long and up to 5km wide at its widest point, almost two-thirds of the lake lies in China, while only one-third is in India. This breathtaking lake has become a bucket list destination for every traveler visiting Ladakh. The unique thing about this lake is that it always changes its colors throughout the year or even the day from azure to light blue to green.
Due to its proximity to the Indo-China border, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for Indian nationals, and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required for foreign tourists.
Pangong Tso Highlights
- Altitude: 4,350 m (14,270 ft)
- Location: Eastern Ladakh, extending into Tibet
- Distance from Leh: 160 km via Chang La Pass
- Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road
- Length: 134 km (approx. 1/3rd in India, rest in Tibet)
- Best Season: May–September
- Popular For: Changing water colours, Bollywood shoots, camping
How to Reach Pangong Lake from Leh
The most common route to Pangong Lake is via Chang La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. The distance between Leh and Pangong Lake is about 160 kilometers, which takes around 4–5 hours by road. It is recommended to plan an overnight stay to fully enjoy the stunning sunrise and sunset views over the lake. The journey takes you through:
Leh → Shey → Thiksey → Karu → Chang La Pass → Durbuk → Tangtse → Pangong Lake
This route is generally open from May to early October, depending on snowfall. Local union taxis, bike rentals, and shared taxis are available.
There are also organized tour packages and Ladakh bike tour packages that cover all the popular places to visit in Ladakh.
Permits Required for visiting Pangong Lake
All visitors, including Indian nationals, require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Pangong Lake as it’s located in a restricted border area.
Indian citizens can get online permission by visiting the official Ladakh government portal. While applying online, keep a valid government ID proof ready. The fee per individual is Rs. 400.
Foreign nationals must apply through a registered tour operator. Information required for foreign tourists includes passport number, nationality, permit type, visa number, and the name of the registered travel agent.
Here you can get online permission for Pangong lake.
Choosing Your Experience: Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Day Trip: A full day excursion from Leh. It is a long, tiring journey, but you will get to see the lake in all its daytime glory. The downside is missing the magical sunrise, sunset and night sky.
Overnight Stay: Highly recommended this allows you to experience Pangong’s serene nights and stunning star studded skies. Accommodation options range from basic tents to more comfortable cottages in villages like Spangmik and Man.
Note: Direct camping on the lake shore is prohibited to protect the ecosystem.
Accommodation Options Near Pangong Lake
There are various accommodation options at Pangong Lake, ranging from luxury camps to budget stays.
Luxury camps offer tents with attached bathrooms, dining facilities, and stunning lake views. Rates usually range from ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per night.
Budget accommodations provide basic but clean rooms in Spangmik village, with rates starting from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night.
Another option is staying in local homestays, which offer a chance to experience authentic Ladakhi culture and traditional hospitality. Rates typically range from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per person.
Some of the best options for a night stay at Pangong Lake include:
- The Ladakh Cottage, Pangong
- The Golden Cottage and Restaurant
- Blue Chill Cottage, Pangong
Note: Private camping is not allowed at Pangong Lake.
Things to Do at Pangong Lake
- Camping: Stay in lakeside camps (May–September) for an unforgettable night under Ladakh’s starry sky.
- Photography: Capture shifting lake colors, snow peaks, sunset/sunrise, migratory birds, and marmots. For photography the best lighting conditions occur during sunrise (5:30-7:00 AM) and sunset (6:30-8:00 PM) when the lake’s colors are most dramatic. Here are some best photographic spots
- Spangmik Village: Classic viewpoint featured in movies
- Eastern Shore: Less crowded areas with pristine lake access
- Merak Village: Traditional Ladakhi village with lake backdrop
- Changla Pass: Panoramic views during the journey
- Bird Watching: The lake is a breeding ground for migratory birds like the Bar-headed goose and Brahminy duck. Bring binoculars!
- Stargazing: With almost zero light pollution, the night sky at Pangong is a spectacle. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye
- Wildlife Spotting: Marmot halt point 20km before the lake.
- Visit Nearby Villages: Engage with the locals in Spangmik or Merak. Try some traditional Ladakhi cuisine like Thukpa or Momos from a local stall.
Phone Networks at Pangong Lake
Only BSNL postpaid works reliably; Jio postpaid may connect in some patches. No mobile internet in most areas. And no WiFi as well.
Drone Rules
Flying drones without prior permission from the Local authority (District Magistrate’s office ) is prohibited. Heavy penalties apply for violations.
Best Time to Visit Pangong Lake
The best time to visit Pangong Lake is from May to September. During these months the weather is pleasant and the high-altitude passes leading to the lake are open and accessible. I also visit this place during the month of August.
The months from May to September are the peak tourist season. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The lake is in its most vibrant blue state, and campsites are fully operational.
During winter, the lake completely freezes, and road access is often challenging or closed due to heavy snowfall and slippery conditions. Temperatures can drop as low as -20°C.
Travel Tips for Pangong Lake
- Carry warm clothes even in summer (temperature drops at night).
- Mobile connectivity is limited—BSNL works best.
- Keep snacks, water, and cash (no ATMs at Pangong).
- Book stays in advance during peak season (June–August).
Plan Your Pangong Lake Adventure
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What is Pangong Lake famous for?
Pangong Lake is famous for its breathtaking blue waters, high-altitude location at 4,350 meters, and its changing colors that shift from blue to green and red. It gained global fame after featuring in Bollywood films like 3 Idiots and attracts tourists for camping, photography, and scenic beauty.
Is Pangong freshwater or saltwater?
Pangong Lake, situated at a height of almost 4,350m, is the world’s highest saltwater lake not fresh water lake.
Is it safe to stay overnight at Pangong Lake?
Yes, it is safe to stay overnight at Pangong Lake Camp. In fact, the whole lake area is famous for night camping.
Are there ATMs or banks near Pangong Lake?
No, there are no ATMs or banking facilities near Pangong Lake. Ensure you carry sufficient cash from Leh for accommodation, meals, and other expenses. Most establishments accept only cash payments.
Does Pangong Lake freeze?
Yes, Pangong Lake completely freezes during the winter months despite being a saline (brackish) water lake.
From November to March, temperatures in Ladakh drop as low as -20°C to -25°C, causing the lake to turn into a thick sheet of ice. This frozen lake becomes so solid that locals and even the Indian Army sometimes move across it
What is the oxygen level at Pangong Lake altitude?
At 14,270 feet above sea level, oxygen levels at Pangong Lake are approximately 40-50% of sea level concentrations. This can cause altitude sickness symptoms, so proper acclimatization and gradual ascent are essential.
FAQs- Pangong Lake
Why is Pangong Lake famous?
Pangong Lake is known for its stunning beauty, changing colors, and being featured in movies like 3 Idiots.
Do we need permits for Pangong Lake?
Yes, Indian tourists require an Inner Line Permit, while foreigners need a Protected Area Permit.
Can we stay at Pangong Lake overnight?
Yes, there are camps and homestays near the lake. Overnight stay is highly recommended.
What is the best time to visit Pangong Lake?
The best time is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is not frozen.
How far is Pangong Lake from Leh?
Pangong is around 160 km from Leh and takes 5–6 hours by road.
Is Pangong Lake a saltwater lake?
Yes, Pangong Lake is a saltwater (brackish) lake. This is a fascinating fact, as it completely freezes over during the winter months despite its high salinity.
Why does Pangong Lake change color?
The lake’s color-changing phenomenon is attributed to the presence of minerals in the water, which reflect different shades of light depending on the time of day and the sun’s position.
Which phone network works at Pangong Lake?
Only BSNL postpaid is reliable; Jio postpaid works in patches.
Is drone flying allowed at Pangong Lake?
No, unless you have prior official permission.
Is mobile network connectivity good at Khandiyal Top?
Mobile network connectivity in Gurez Valley, including around Khandiyal Top, is generally limited. BSNL is often the only network that has some coverage in Dawar, but signals can be intermittent.
- 4N/5D
- 2N Leh
- 1N Nubra valley
- 1N Pangong
- 3 Star Hotels
- Homestay and Camps
- Airport Transfers
- Private Cab
- Inner Line Permit
Tour Plan: Leh-Khardung La Pass -> Nubra valley -> Pangong Lake -> Leh
₹ 41,999 / Couple
- 5N/6D
- 3N Leh
- 1N Nubra valley
- 1N Pangong
- 3 Star Hotels
- Homestay and Camps
- Airport Transfers
- Private Cab
- Inner Line Permit
Tour Plan: Leh sightseeing -> Kahrdung La Pass -> Nubra Valley -> Pangong Lake -> Leh
₹ 48,999 / Couple
- 6N/7D
- 3N Leh
- 2N Nubra valley
- 1N Pangong
- 3 Star Hotels
- Homestay and Camps
- Airport Transfers
- Private Cab
- Inner Line Permit
Tour Plan: Leh sightseeing -> Kahrdung La Pass -> Nubra Valley -> Turtuk -> Pangong Lake -> Leh
₹ 61,000 / Couple
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